How do natural resources and geologic features affect the course of Middle East history and geopolitics? Barazangi highlights the critical importance of better understanding Islamic history and cultures of the Arab/Persian region, which has the world's largest oil reserves. He will also discuss the earthquake hazards of the Dead Sea Fault and the decline of science and technology in Arabia. Dr. Barazangi was educated in Syria and the U.S. and has had a distinguished career in research and education in the U.S and in the Middle East.